Comparative International Rates of Incarceration: An Examination of Causes and Trends

The United States can learn from an international perspective on the use of incarceration. The means by which different nations respond to issues of crime and punishment is very much a reflection of policy choices. The consequences of decisions on incarceration policy are wide-ranging. As is the case in the United States today, there are collateral consequences that extend well beyond immediate criminal justice decisionmaking. The report urges that unless the United States addresses these issues in a comprehensive manner, we risk not only perpetuating ineffective criminal justice policies but aggravating other social problems as well.